Various embodiments of the present invention relate to providing an audible route sequence for guiding a user along a route. A user apparatus determines a user location, distance and directional aspects for one or more waypoint of the route, and a cadence. A distance aspect of a waypoint is a distance between the waypoint and the user location. A directional aspect of a waypoint is the angle between a reference heading and straight line connecting the waypoint to the user location. The cadence is determined based on the distance between consecutive waypoints. The user apparatus determines a route sequence based on the distance and directional aspects for the waypoints and the cadence. The route sequence comprises a sequence of audible pitches that each correspond to a waypoint of the route. The user apparatus causes the route sequence to be audibly provided via a sound device.
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1. A method comprising: determining, by an apparatus and via one or more location sensors, a user location; determining, by the apparatus, one or more aspects for one or more waypoints, wherein (a) the one or more waypoints are identified based on map data of a geographic database, (b) the one or more waypoints define at least part of a route to a destination location, and (c) the one or more aspects each correspond to a spatial relationship between at least one of (i) the user location and one of the one or more waypoints or (ii) pairs of waypoints of the route; determining, by the apparatus, an audible sequence corresponding to the route based on the one or more aspects for the one or more waypoints, wherein the audible sequence comprises one or more audible sounds respectively associated with the one or more waypoints in accordance with the one or more aspects; and causing, by the apparatus, the audible sequence to be audibly provided via a sound device.
Navigation and route guidance systems. This technology addresses the problem of providing intuitive and context-aware audible navigation instructions. An apparatus, utilizing location sensors, determines a user's current position. The apparatus also identifies waypoints, which are parts of a route to a destination, using map data from a geographic database. Key aspects are determined relating to the spatial position of the user relative to waypoints and the spatial relationships between different waypoints along the route. Based on these aspects, an audible sequence is generated. This sequence comprises distinct audible sounds, each linked to a specific waypoint and presented according to the determined aspects. Finally, the audible sequence is played through a sound device to guide the user along the route.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: receiving, by the apparatus, an indication of the destination location; identifying the one or more waypoints between the user location and the destination location; and determining the route from the user location to the destination location based on the identified one or more waypoints.
This invention relates to navigation systems that determine optimal routes for users. The problem addressed is the need for efficient route planning that accounts for waypoints between a user's current location and a destination. The system receives an indication of the destination location and identifies one or more waypoints along the route. These waypoints may include intermediate stops, points of interest, or other relevant locations that influence the route. The system then determines the optimal route from the user's current location to the destination, taking into account the identified waypoints. This ensures the route is not only direct but also considers user preferences or necessary stops, improving navigation accuracy and user experience. The method may involve real-time adjustments based on traffic conditions, road closures, or other dynamic factors to provide the most efficient path. The system may also integrate with mapping services or user preferences to further refine route calculations. The overall goal is to provide a seamless and adaptive navigation solution that dynamically adjusts to user needs and environmental conditions.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the audible sequence comprises an audible sound for each waypoint of the route between the user location and the destination location.
This invention relates to navigation systems that provide audible guidance to users, particularly for routes with multiple waypoints. The problem addressed is the need for clear, step-by-step audio instructions that help users navigate complex routes without requiring visual attention. The solution involves generating an audible sequence where each waypoint along the route from the user's current location to the destination is represented by a distinct audible sound. These sounds are played in sequence to guide the user through each segment of the route. The system first determines the user's location and the destination, then calculates the optimal route, which may include multiple intermediate waypoints. For each waypoint, a corresponding audible sound is generated and played in order, ensuring the user receives continuous guidance without needing to look at a display. The sounds may vary in pitch, duration, or type to distinguish different waypoints or turns. This approach enhances accessibility and safety by reducing the need for visual navigation, making it particularly useful for pedestrians, cyclists, or drivers who must keep their eyes on the road. The system may also adjust the timing or volume of the sounds based on the user's speed or proximity to each waypoint.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the audible sequence comprises an audible sound for up to the next twelve waypoints of the route between the user location and the destination location.
This invention relates to navigation systems that provide audible guidance to users, particularly for routes with multiple waypoints. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and clear audible instructions that help users navigate complex routes without overwhelming them with excessive information. The solution involves generating an audible sequence that includes sounds corresponding to up to the next twelve waypoints along a route from a user's current location to a destination. Each waypoint represents a turn, intersection, or other navigational landmark. The audible sequence is designed to be concise yet informative, ensuring users receive timely and relevant guidance without being overloaded. The system dynamically adjusts the sequence based on the user's progress, updating the audible instructions as they move along the route. This approach improves navigation accuracy and reduces cognitive load, making it easier for users to follow directions, especially in unfamiliar or complex environments. The invention is particularly useful for applications in automotive, pedestrian, and aviation navigation systems where clear and timely waypoint guidance is critical.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein (a) the user location is within a space, (b) the destination location is within the space, and (c) the geographic database comprises map data providing a digital representation of the space.
This invention relates to navigation systems for guiding users within enclosed or confined spaces, such as buildings, facilities, or other indoor environments. The problem addressed is the lack of precise navigation solutions for users moving within such spaces, where traditional GPS-based systems often fail due to signal interference or absence. The method involves determining a user's location within a defined space and providing navigation guidance to a destination location also within that space. A geographic database stores map data that digitally represents the space, including structural details, pathways, and other relevant features. The system uses this data to calculate routes, generate turn-by-turn directions, or provide other navigation assistance tailored to the indoor environment. The method ensures accurate positioning and navigation by leveraging the detailed map data specific to the space, overcoming limitations of outdoor GPS systems in indoor settings. This approach enhances user experience by offering reliable navigation within complex or multi-level indoor areas, such as shopping malls, airports, hospitals, or industrial facilities. The system may also integrate with mobile devices or dedicated navigation tools to deliver real-time guidance.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more aspects corresponding to a waypoint comprise at least one of (a) a distance aspect corresponding to a distance between the user location and the waypoint, (b) a directional aspect corresponding to an angle between a line connecting the user location to the waypoint and a reference heading, or (c) a distance between consecutive waypoints of the route.
This invention relates to navigation systems that provide route guidance to users, particularly focusing on waypoint-based navigation. The problem addressed is the need for more intuitive and context-aware waypoint information to improve user experience during navigation. Traditional systems often provide limited or generic waypoint data, which can be confusing or inefficient for users. The invention describes a method for enhancing waypoint information in navigation systems by incorporating multiple aspects related to waypoints. These aspects include a distance aspect, which calculates the distance between the user's current location and a waypoint, helping users gauge proximity. A directional aspect provides the angle between a line connecting the user's location to the waypoint and a reference heading, such as the user's current direction of travel or a predefined orientation, enabling better spatial awareness. Additionally, the distance between consecutive waypoints along the route is calculated to assist in route planning and progress tracking. By integrating these aspects, the system offers more precise and contextually relevant waypoint data, improving navigation accuracy and user experience. The method can be applied in various navigation applications, including GPS-based systems, autonomous vehicles, and pedestrian guidance tools.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the audible sounds assigned to the one or more waypoints comprise at least a portion of a musical scale.
This invention relates to navigation systems that use audible sounds to guide users, particularly in environments where visual cues are limited or unavailable. The problem addressed is the need for an intuitive, non-visual navigation aid that helps users follow a predefined route or reach specific waypoints without relying on visual displays or maps. The system assigns distinct audible sounds to one or more waypoints along a route. These sounds are designed to be easily recognizable and distinguishable, allowing users to identify their current location or proximity to a waypoint based on the sound heard. In this specific embodiment, the audible sounds assigned to the waypoints include at least a portion of a musical scale, such as individual notes or a sequence of notes. This approach leverages the human ear's natural ability to recognize and differentiate musical tones, making navigation more intuitive and reducing cognitive load. The system may also include additional features, such as adjusting the volume, pitch, or frequency of the sounds based on the user's distance from a waypoint, providing directional cues, or combining sounds with other sensory feedback (e.g., vibrations). The musical scale-based sounds can be customized to suit different environments, user preferences, or accessibility needs. This method enhances navigation efficiency and safety, particularly for visually impaired individuals or in low-visibility conditions.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sound device is a set of headphones, earbuds, hearing aids, or bone conduction devices.
This invention relates to audio devices designed to enhance sound perception for users, particularly those with hearing impairments or those in noisy environments. The technology addresses the challenge of delivering clear, personalized audio experiences by utilizing specialized sound devices such as headphones, earbuds, hearing aids, or bone conduction devices. These devices are configured to process and transmit audio signals in a manner that improves sound quality, reduces background noise, and adapts to individual hearing needs. The system may include features like noise cancellation, adjustable frequency response, and real-time audio adjustments to optimize listening conditions. By integrating these sound devices into the broader audio processing system, the invention ensures that users receive high-fidelity sound tailored to their specific requirements, whether for entertainment, communication, or hearing assistance. The devices may also incorporate wireless connectivity, allowing seamless integration with external audio sources. This approach enhances user experience by providing a more immersive and accessible audio environment.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the audible sound corresponding to a first waypoint is conditioned to have a volume and a direction configured to make the audible sound sound as if it was generated at the first waypoint.
This invention relates to audio navigation systems that guide users through physical spaces using directional and spatially accurate audible sounds. The problem addressed is the lack of intuitive spatial cues in traditional audio navigation, which can confuse users about their position relative to waypoints or destinations. The solution involves generating and conditioning audible sounds to simulate their origin at specific waypoints, enhancing spatial awareness. The method processes input data to determine a user's location and the position of a first waypoint. An audible sound is generated and conditioned to have a specific volume and direction, creating the perception that the sound originates from the first waypoint. This conditioning may involve adjusting the sound's amplitude, phase, or other acoustic properties to simulate spatial origin. The system may also account for environmental factors, such as obstacles or reverberations, to improve accuracy. Additional waypoints can be similarly processed to provide a series of spatially accurate audio cues, guiding the user along a path. The method may integrate with wearable devices or headphones to deliver the conditioned sounds directly to the user. This approach improves navigation clarity by providing intuitive spatial feedback, reducing reliance on abstract verbal instructions.
10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the audible sequence is determined responsive to at least one of (a) determining the route to the destination, (b) a predetermined time period elapsing since the audible sequence was last provided, (c) the user location being within a first threshold distance of one of the one or more waypoints, (d) the user location being more than a second threshold distance from the route, or (e) a user heading being more than a second threshold angle from an expected user heading determined based on the route and the user location.
This invention relates to navigation systems that provide audible guidance to users. The problem addressed is the need for dynamic and context-aware audible cues to assist users in following a route to a destination, particularly when deviations or delays occur. The system determines an audible sequence based on various conditions to ensure timely and relevant guidance. The method involves monitoring the user's location and heading relative to a predefined route and waypoints. An audible sequence is triggered when certain conditions are met, such as the route to the destination being determined, a predetermined time elapsing since the last audible cue, the user being within a first threshold distance of a waypoint, the user being more than a second threshold distance from the route, or the user's heading deviating by more than a second threshold angle from the expected heading based on the route and current location. These conditions ensure that the system adapts to the user's progress and provides guidance when necessary, such as when the user is off-course or needs reassurance. The audible sequence may include turn-by-turn instructions, warnings, or confirmations to help the user stay on track. This approach improves navigation accuracy and user experience by dynamically adjusting guidance based on real-time conditions.
11. The method of claim 1 , wherein when the user location is within a first threshold distance of a first waypoint of the one or more waypoints, a directional aspect of the one or more aspects that corresponds to the first waypoint is omnidirectional.
This invention relates to navigation systems that provide directional guidance to users, particularly in environments where precise waypoint navigation is required. The problem addressed is ensuring users receive clear and effective directional cues when approaching specific waypoints, especially in complex or dynamic environments where traditional directional indicators may be insufficient. The method involves tracking a user's location relative to predefined waypoints. When the user is within a first threshold distance of a first waypoint, the system adjusts the directional aspect of the guidance to become omnidirectional. This means the guidance signal or indicator is broadcast in all directions, ensuring the user receives the cue regardless of their orientation. This is particularly useful in scenarios where the user may not be facing the intended direction of travel or where environmental factors could obscure directional signals. The system may also include additional waypoints, each with their own threshold distances and corresponding directional aspects. As the user moves closer to a waypoint, the guidance transitions from a directional signal to an omnidirectional one, improving reliability and user experience. The method ensures that critical navigation cues are not missed, even if the user deviates from an expected path or orientation. This approach is beneficial in applications such as indoor navigation, autonomous vehicle routing, or augmented reality guidance systems.
12. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; at least one memory storing (a) program code and (b) a geographic database comprising map data; and a user interface configured to operate one or more sound devices, wherein the at least one memory and the program code are configured to, with the processor, cause the apparatus to at least: determine, via one or more location sensors, a user location; determine one or more aspects for one or more waypoints, wherein (a) the one or more waypoints are identified based on map data of a geographic database, (b) the one or more waypoints define at least part of a route to a destination location, and (c) the one or more aspects each correspond to a spatial relationship between at least one of (i) the user location and one of the one or more waypoints or (ii) pairs of waypoints of the route; determine an audible sequence corresponding to the route based on the one or more aspects for the one or more waypoints, wherein the audible sequence comprises one or more audible sounds respectively associated with the one or more waypoints in accordance with the one or more aspects; and cause, by the user interface, the audible sequence to be audibly provided via at least one of the one or more sound devices.
This invention relates to a navigation system that provides auditory guidance to users based on spatial relationships between their current location and waypoints along a route. The system addresses the challenge of delivering intuitive navigation instructions without relying solely on visual displays, which can be impractical or unsafe in certain environments. The apparatus includes a processor, memory storing program code and a geographic database with map data, and a user interface connected to sound devices. The system determines the user's location using sensors and identifies waypoints along a route to a destination. For each waypoint, it calculates spatial aspects such as the user's position relative to the waypoint or the relationship between pairs of waypoints. Based on these spatial aspects, the system generates an audible sequence where each sound corresponds to a waypoint and reflects its spatial relationship. The sequence is then played through the sound devices, providing users with auditory cues to navigate effectively. This approach enhances accessibility and usability, particularly for visually impaired individuals or those in situations where visual attention is limited.
13. The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the at least one memory and the program code are further configured to, with the processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive an indication of the destination location; identify the one or more waypoints between the user location and the destination location based on the map data; and determine the route from the user location to the destination location based on the identified one or more waypoints.
This invention relates to navigation systems that determine routes between a user's current location and a destination. The problem addressed is efficiently calculating a route by identifying intermediate waypoints and constructing a path based on those waypoints. The system includes a processor, at least one memory, and program code stored in the memory. The program code, when executed, enables the system to receive a destination location input, access map data, and identify one or more waypoints between the user's current location and the destination. The system then determines a route by connecting these waypoints, ensuring the path is optimized for navigation. The map data may include road networks, landmarks, or other geographic features that define possible travel paths. The waypoints serve as key reference points that guide the route calculation, allowing the system to generate a coherent and navigable path. This approach improves route planning by leveraging structured waypoint identification rather than arbitrary pathfinding, enhancing accuracy and efficiency in navigation systems.
14. The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the audible sequence comprises an audible sound for each waypoint of the route between the user location and the destination location.
This invention relates to navigation systems that provide audible guidance to users. The problem addressed is the need for clear, sequential audio instructions to guide users along a route from their current location to a destination. Existing systems may lack precise waypoint-based audio cues, leading to user confusion or inefficiency. The apparatus includes a navigation system that generates an audible sequence of sounds corresponding to each waypoint along a predefined route. The system determines the user's location and the destination, then calculates the route with intermediate waypoints. For each waypoint, the apparatus produces a distinct audible sound, ensuring the user receives sequential audio feedback as they progress. The sounds may vary in pitch, duration, or pattern to distinguish different waypoints or actions, such as turns or straight paths. The system may also adjust the timing or volume of the sounds based on the user's movement speed or proximity to waypoints. This enhances navigation accuracy and reduces cognitive load by providing clear, step-by-step audio guidance. The invention improves upon prior art by offering a more intuitive and reliable way to navigate using audible cues.
15. The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the audible sequence comprises an audible sound for up to the next twelve waypoints of the route between the user location and the destination location.
This invention relates to navigation systems that provide audible guidance to users, particularly for routes with multiple waypoints. The problem addressed is the need for clear, concise, and timely audible instructions to guide users along complex routes, especially when multiple turns or waypoints are involved. Existing systems often provide instructions for only the next few waypoints, which can be insufficient for users who need to plan ahead or navigate in environments where immediate reactions are difficult. The apparatus includes a navigation system that generates an audible sequence of instructions for a route from a user's current location to a destination. The audible sequence includes instructions for up to the next twelve waypoints along the route. This allows users to anticipate upcoming turns or actions well in advance, improving navigation efficiency and reducing the cognitive load of processing instructions in real time. The system dynamically adjusts the audible sequence based on the user's progress, ensuring that instructions remain relevant and up-to-date. The apparatus may also include a display or other feedback mechanisms to complement the audible guidance, enhancing user experience and accuracy. The invention is particularly useful in applications where visual attention is limited, such as driving, cycling, or hiking, where advance knowledge of upcoming waypoints is critical for safe and efficient navigation.
16. The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the one or more aspects corresponding to a waypoint comprise at least one of (a) a distance aspect corresponding to a distance between the user location and the waypoint, (b) a directional aspect corresponding to an angle between a line connecting the user location to the waypoint and a reference heading, or (c) a distance between consecutive waypoints of the route.
This invention relates to navigation systems that provide route guidance to users, particularly focusing on waypoint-based navigation. The problem addressed is the lack of detailed spatial information about waypoints along a route, which can make navigation less intuitive or less precise. The invention improves upon prior navigation systems by enhancing the waypoint data with additional spatial aspects to better inform users about their position relative to waypoints and the overall route structure. The apparatus includes a navigation system that determines a user's location and a predefined route consisting of multiple waypoints. For each waypoint, the system calculates one or more spatial aspects, such as the distance from the user's current location to the waypoint, the directional angle between the user's current heading and the line connecting the user to the waypoint, or the distance between consecutive waypoints along the route. These aspects are then used to generate navigation instructions or visual displays that provide more context about the user's position relative to the waypoints. For example, the system may indicate whether the user is approaching a waypoint from the correct direction or if they are off-course. The invention also allows for dynamic adjustments to navigation guidance based on real-time changes in the user's location or route conditions. This enhances navigation accuracy and user experience by providing more precise and context-aware guidance.
17. The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the audible sounds assigned to the one or more waypoints comprise at least a portion of a musical scale.
This invention relates to navigation systems that use audible sounds to guide users along a route, particularly for visually impaired individuals. The problem addressed is the lack of intuitive, non-visual navigation cues that help users understand their position and direction relative to predefined waypoints. Traditional systems often rely on spoken instructions or simple beeps, which may not effectively convey spatial relationships or progress along a route. The apparatus includes a navigation system that assigns distinct audible sounds to one or more waypoints along a route. These sounds are not random but are derived from a musical scale, providing a structured and familiar auditory pattern. The musical scale-based sounds help users perceive their position and movement in a more intuitive manner, as the progression of notes can indicate proximity to waypoints or direction of travel. The system may also adjust the pitch, volume, or timing of the sounds to further enhance spatial awareness. Additionally, the apparatus may include a user interface for selecting or customizing the musical scale used, allowing personalization based on user preference or auditory needs. The sounds may be emitted through a wearable device, such as a headset or smart glasses, ensuring the user receives real-time feedback as they navigate. This approach improves navigation efficiency and reduces cognitive load for users who rely on non-visual cues.
18. The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the one or more sound devices comprise at least one of headphones, earbuds, hearing aids, or bone conduction devices.
This invention relates to audio devices designed to enhance sound perception for users, particularly those with hearing impairments or in noisy environments. The apparatus includes one or more sound devices that deliver audio signals to a user, improving clarity and intelligibility. The sound devices may include headphones, earbuds, hearing aids, or bone conduction devices, each configured to transmit sound waves directly to the user's ears or through bone vibrations. The apparatus may also incorporate adaptive noise reduction, directional microphones, or signal processing to optimize audio quality. The system can be integrated with external audio sources, such as smartphones or media players, to provide personalized sound adjustments. The invention aims to address challenges in hearing assistance, such as background noise interference and limited audio customization, by offering versatile and user-friendly solutions. The sound devices are designed to be lightweight, portable, and compatible with various audio inputs, ensuring broad applicability across different user needs. The apparatus may also include feedback mechanisms to refine sound delivery based on real-time user preferences or environmental conditions.
19. The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the audible sound corresponding to a first waypoint is conditioned to have a volume and a direction configured to make the audible pitch sound as if it was generated at the first waypoint.
This invention relates to navigation systems that provide auditory guidance to users, particularly in environments where visual cues may be limited or unavailable. The system generates audible sounds corresponding to waypoints along a navigation path, enhancing spatial awareness by simulating the perception that the sound originates from the actual location of the waypoint. The apparatus includes a sound generation module that produces directional audio cues, adjusting volume and direction to create the illusion that the sound emanates from a specific waypoint. The system may also incorporate a user interface for inputting navigation data and a processing unit that calculates the optimal auditory cues based on the user's position and the waypoint's location. By dynamically adjusting the sound's volume and direction, the system improves navigation accuracy and user experience, particularly in low-visibility or complex environments. The invention is useful in applications such as indoor navigation, assistive technologies for visually impaired individuals, and augmented reality systems.
20. A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program code portions stored therein, the computer-readable program code portions comprising executable portions configured to: determine, via one or more location sensors, a user location; determine one or more aspects for one or more waypoints, wherein (a) the one or more waypoints are identified based on map data of a geographic database, (b) the one or more waypoints define at least part of a route to a destination location, and (c) the one or more aspects each correspond to a spatial relationship between at least one of (i) the user location and one of the one or more waypoints or (ii) pairs of waypoints of the route; determine an audible sequence corresponding to the route based on the one or more aspects for the one or more waypoints, wherein the audible sequence comprises one or more audible sounds respectively associated with the one or more waypoints in accordance with the one or more aspects; and cause the audible sequence to be audibly provided via one or more sound devices.
This invention relates to a navigation system that provides auditory guidance to users based on spatial relationships between their location and waypoints along a route. The system addresses the challenge of delivering intuitive navigation instructions without relying solely on visual displays, which can be impractical or unsafe in certain environments. The computer program product includes executable code that operates on a device with location sensors to track the user's position. Using map data from a geographic database, the system identifies waypoints that define a route to a destination. For each waypoint, the system determines spatial aspects, such as the relative position of the user to the waypoint or the relationship between pairs of waypoints along the route. Based on these spatial aspects, the system generates an audible sequence of sounds, where each sound corresponds to a waypoint and encodes its spatial relationship. The sounds are then output through one or more audio devices, providing the user with a non-visual navigation aid. This approach enhances accessibility and usability, particularly for visually impaired individuals or those in situations where visual attention is divided.
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December 23, 2019
February 22, 2022
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